Genital herpes - self-care

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You are likely worried after finding out that you have genital herpes. But know that you are not alone. Millions of people carry the virus. Although there is no cure, genital herpes can be treated. Follow your health care provider’s instructions for treatment and follow-up.

Future Outbreaks

One type of herpes virus stays in the body by hiding within nerve cells. It can remain "asleep" (dormant) for a long time. The virus can "wake up" (reactivate) at any time. This can be triggered by:

Fatigue

Genital irritation

Menstruation

Physical or emotional stress

Injury

A second outbreak can appear weeks or months after your first outbreak. It is usually less severe and goes away sooner than the first. Over time, the number of outbreaks may decrease.

Self-care

To ease symptoms:

Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or aspirin to relieve pain.

Apply cool compresses to sores several times a day to relieve pain and itching.

Women with sores on the vaginal lips (labia) can try urinating in a tub of water to avoid pain.

Doing the following can help sores heal:

Wash sores gently with soap and water. Then pat dry.

Do not bandage sores. Air speeds healing.

Do not pick at sores. They can get infected, which slows healing.

Do not use ointment or lotion on sores unless your health care provider prescribes it.

Wear loose-fitting cotton underwear. Do not wear nylon or other synthetic pantyhose or underwear. Also do not wear tight-fitting pants.

Medication

Genital herpes cannot be cured. Antiviral medication may relieve pain and discomfort. It may also reduce the number of outbreaks. If you are prescribed medication, follow your health care provider’s instructions about how to take it.

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